Amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, there lies another iconic monument of cinematic excellence: the Dolby Theatre. It was built back in the 2000s. However, it has given the world uncountable joyful moments to share like Leonardo DiCaprio’s only Oscar win. Although today’s generation might know it as the home of the Academy Awards ceremonies, but there was once a time when it did not exist.

With the 96th annual Oscar Awards less than a week away, here are some fun facts to know about the iconic theater formerly known as the Kodak Theatre.

The inception of the Dolby Theatre

In 1997, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences decided that it was time for them to have a home for the prestigious Academy Awards. With the venue changing every few years, they chose to build a new place to call home. It was the Dolby Theatre which was built and opened to the public in 2001. While the space was created for the awards show, it is not the only event held there.

In fact, over the years, many performances and plays have taken place there. The structure was designed by American architect, David Rockwell. With a towering archway, inspirations by Michelangelo, and a silver-leafed oval “tiara,” imitating Busby Berkeley’s shots of dancers to disguise a lighting grid, it was tailor-made to perfection for the esteemed awards show.

With such grandeur, there is no doubt that all the Hollywood stars who walked the red carpet at the first awards ceremony were left awestruck.

When was the first Academy Awards held at the Dolby Theatre?

The Dolby Theatre may have become a staple for all the stars of Hollywood. Although it was not until 2001, that the 74th Oscar Awards ceremony was hosted within its stunning walls. Apart from that, it was also the year that the category for Best Animated Feature Film was introduced. It was already a huge night for everyone present. However, the surround sound and mesmerizing visuals in the theater added to the excitement.

As the night went on, Julia Roberts bagged the award for Best Actress, while Russell Crowe’s Gladiator dominated the event and made the show a night to remember. Ever since then, all of Hollywood’s brightest stars have made their way to the Dolby Theatre in the hope of taking home the esteemed award. Even this year’s award show will be held on 11th March at the theatre.

Apart from the Academy Awards, the Dolby Theatre has also opened its doors to many other televised events and even to other artists for a few performances.

Which other events have taken place at the Dolby Theatre?

The Academy Awards might be the biggest event held at the Dolby Theatre. However, it is not the only one. From the Daytime Emmy Awards to America’s Got Talent and more, the theatre can be used for other televised events. Apart from that, even Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Celine Dion, and other artists have taken the stage to give their fans the performance of a lifetime.

With such high-quality facilities and its prime location right in the heart of Hollywood, the Dolby Theatre has continued to be an in-demand venue; not just for hosting memorable and star-studded events like the Academy Awards, but for fans and celebrities alike.

Who can visit the Dolby Theatre?

For years now, the Dolby Theatre has served as a prominent location for major award ceremonies and live performances. While it has hosted the Academy Awards for over the last two decades, it is also open to the public. From tourists to film enthusiasts, people have made their way to the venue just to share in the same glory of some of their fan-favorite stars.

Apart from visiting with friends for a show, fans can also book a tour to check out the exquisite theater. During these tours, guests will have the chance to dive deep into the theater’s rich history. They will also be able to check out some of its state-of-the-art technology and share the illustrious stage where some of the world’s biggest and greatest artists have performed.

Have you visited the Dolby Theatre? Let us know in the comments below.